Awarding of the contract for the extension of the Red Line of the Riyadh Metro towards Diriyah
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has officially announced a significant step in the development of the capital's infrastructure: the awarding of the contract for the extension of the "Red Line" within the Riyadh Metro network. This vital project includes the addition of an 8.4-kilometer track and the construction of five new stations, aiming to enhance the efficiency of the public transportation system and connect strategic destinations within the city.
The scope of the new project, which includes design, implementation, and completion, extends to connect King Saud University to the Diriyah Gate development project. This extension enhances the network's comprehensiveness, as the Red Line (King Abdullah Road axis) is a key artery in the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project, which aims to transform the lifestyle in the Saudi capital.
Project context and its strategic importance
This announcement complements the Riyadh Metro project, the backbone of the city's public transportation system and one of the world's largest infrastructure projects being implemented simultaneously. This expansion is particularly significant due to its direct connection to the Diriyah Gate, a historical jewel of the Kingdom and the cradle of the first Saudi state, and one of the mega-projects within the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Expected economic and tourism impact
This expansion is expected to revolutionize transportation to tourist and heritage sites. Connecting the metro network to Diriyah will facilitate access for visitors, tourists, and residents to the historic Al-Turaif district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thus supporting the Kingdom's tourism goals. The project will also serve a large segment of students and staff at King Saud University, contributing to reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, in line with the Saudi Green Initiative.
This step reflects the Royal Commission for Riyadh City’s commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030, which aims to raise the quality of life in the capital and make Riyadh one of the best cities in the world to live in, by providing smart, sustainable, and environmentally friendly transportation options that meet the needs of rapid population and urban growth.
